Climate Change: NAGGW Raises Over 45m Assorted Tree Seedlings to Promote Afforestation
The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has produced and raised over 45 million (45,251,179) assorted tree seedlings for afforestation efforts across the country.
Yusuf Maina-Bukar, the Director-General (DG) of the agency, disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday during an interactive session with members of the House of Representatives Committee on Ecological Funds.
He highlighted the achievements of the agency, which was established in 2015, noting that 10,813,733 tree seedlings have been distributed to farmers to promote agroforestry. Additionally, the agency has procured and distributed 4,455 units of solar home lighting systems and 6,300 units of super saver wooden stoves to discourage indiscriminate tree logging for domestic purposes among communities.
Regarding rural infrastructure, Maina-Bukar mentioned that the agency has constructed 430 units of solar-powered boreholes and motorized boreholes with complete accessories. Five skill acquisition centers have also been built and equipped for off-land training purposes.
Community plant nurseries for seedling production have been established, totaling 71 across various communities. In terms of job creation, 1,397 youths have been trained and engaged as forest guards to protect the agency’s investments. Furthermore, 205 units of grinding machines have been procured and distributed to women and youth, while 85 units of motorcycles were provided to forest guards for patrolling to prevent indiscriminate tree felling.
The agency’s efforts also extend to engaging 210,709 youths, including women, directly in tree planting and related activities. In terms of capacity building and development, Maina-Bukar noted that 1,367 rural community members have been trained in off-land livelihood activities, and 275 farmers have acquired skills in climate-smart agriculture in the dryland region.
